Bro. Herman "Skip" Mason, Jr. elected 33rd General President

KANSAS CITY, MO—At 102nd annual convention, in Kansas City July 17-22, brothers of the "Black and Old Gold" named Skip Mason our next general president.
            Bro. Mason is interim vice president of student services at Morehouse College and a pastor. He's also a noted historian, author and documentary producer. Mason was nominated at the fraternity's Orlando convention in August, 2007 along with Bro. Darryl Peal, of Columbus, Ohio. The two campaigned for the fraternity's highest office for the past year crisscrossing the country and abroad to meet and greet fellow Alpha men.

Mason takes the oath of office the weekend of January 23-25, 2009. The
Inaugural Celebration is to take place in Downtown Atlanta's Marriott Marquis Hotel and on the campus of Morehouse College. Former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Bro. Andrew Young, Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin, and Retired U.S. Justice Department Community Relations Director (and the 26th General President of Alpha) Bro. Ozell Sutton, and Congressman Bro. David Scott are honorary
co-chairs of the Inaugural. Vice President of the United Negro College Fund Bro. Maurice Jenkins has been appointed chairman of the Inaugural Celebration.
            "Alpha Phi Alpha has always led on the great issues of the day—in America and around the world," said Bro. Mason. "My election as general president will provide a unique opportunity to further that part of our work and I look forward to the challenge."
            In 2010, Bro. Mason will lead a delegation of thousands of Alpha members to Washington, D.C. for the dedication of the Martin Luther King Jr. National Memorial. The monument project that honors our beloved Bro. King, was spearheaded by the fraternity and is on course for completion on time, and on budget.
            Bro. Mason, who was named national Alumni Brother of the Year in 1989, is the past president of Eta Lambda in Atlanta, and succeeds General President Bro. Darryl Matthews, Sr., of Alpharetta, GA.
            Bro. Mason was initiated while matriculating at Morris Brown College in the heart of the Atlanta University Center in 1982. A graduate of Morris Brown with a bachelor's degree, he also holds a Master of Arts in Library and Information Science Degree from Clark Atlanta University. He is the pastor of Greater Hopewell Christian Methodist Episcopal Church in Atlanta.
            The General President-Elect is married to Harmel Codi Mason. They are the parents of two children and reside in Ellenwood, Georgia just outside Atlanta.

Congratulations to the Graduating Brothers of our Mentoring Chapters:

Alpha Phi, Alpha Rho, and Zeta Mu Chapters

Thank you to all of the Brothers that supported this year's March for Babies!  Because of your support (and some hard-working Brothers), the chapter has raised almost $3,000! With these funds we will help more babies have a healthy start!

Thank you to Brother Thua Barlay for serving as our Chair once again this year.

If you would still like to give, visit our team page by clicking below:

Eta Lambda Team Page

On Saturday, April 19, 2007, Eta Lambda once again held its 31st Annual Leadership Development Workshop.  The event was a huge success with students throughout Metropolitan Atlanta attending.  In addition, Bro. Judge Gregory Adams gave an excellent keynote address to the group.  Thank you to the Co-Chairs, Bro. Charles Hawk and Bro. Michael Jenkins for coordinating this effort.  Also, thank you to all of the Brothers that participated.  We look forward to continuing this great tradition of serving as positive role models to the youth in the community!

Voter Registration Drive: There will be a voter's registration drive Saturday, February 9, 2008 from 9:00am-1:00pm at the Wayfield Foods on MLK Drive. The phone number for the store is 404-505-0158. This program is being led by Brother Mike Hicks.

On April 10, 2007, the Dekalb County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to name the new juvenile court, the "Gregory A. Adams Juvenile Justice Center"; therby making him teh first judge to have a building named in his honor in the history of Dekalb County, Georgia.  The "Gregory A. Adams Juvenile Justice Center" was dedicated on June 22, 2007.  Bro. Adams is a life member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and a financially active member of Eta Lambda Chapter.  Congratulations Bro. Adams!

Once again, Eta Lambda will be helping families in need this Thanksgiving Holiday season.  Brothers are asked to donate $25 to purchase Thanksgiving Baskets.  Donations may be given at the November Chapter Meeting - November 8, 2007.  We thank you for your support of this worthy cause!

Eta Lambda's Chapter Planning Retreat will be on Saturday July 21, 2007 from 9:00 to 1:00 pm.  The retreat is being held on the campus of Morris Brown College in the Ruth Hall Hodges Art Gallery located on the corner of Martin Luther King Jr Drive and Maple Street.  Traveling from Northside Drive, go one block and turn Right on Maple Street.  Ruth Hall Hodges Art Gallery will be on your left.  Parking is available directly behind the building.

Eta Lambda's Summer Picnic will be held on Saturday July 28, 2007 for 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm at the Georgia State University Indian Creek Lodge and Recreation Facility located at 900 South Indian Creek Drive Stone Mountain, GA 30083.  The cost is $10 for adults, $7 for children 12 and under, and children under six are free.  Ticket information is available online or you may contact Bro. Myron Cook at (404) 276-4338.

The July Board of Directors meeting will be held at 7:00 pm on Thursday July 26, 2007 in the community room at the Mall West End.  At the board meeting, we will discuss the constitutional amendments that are being presented at the National Convention.  Therefore all delegates to the National Convention must be in attendance at the July Board Meeting.

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity 101^st Anniversary Convention will take place at the Rosen Shingle Creek Resort in Orlando Florida on August 9^th through August 13^th.  Because of the National Convention, Eta Lambda will not have an August Chapter Meeting.

Fraternally Yours

Ronald M. Natson

34^th President and 11^th District Director

The June fraternity meeting will be held on Thursday June 14^th at the Loudermilk Center located at

On June 14, 2007, I will preside over my last chapter meeting as your President. I am poised and ready to take my place in the history of Eta Lambda.  As I move on to fulfill my duties as the District Director of Georgia, I would like to thank you my Brothers for giving me the opportunity to serve as the President of the illustrious, most esteem, and distinguish Eta Lambda Chapter.  The last two years have been an experience that I will treasure forever.  Through the good times and the bad times, the Brothers of Eta Lambda have stood behind me and refuse to let me take a backward step.  Brother, I thank you for that.

Seem like it was yesterday, I came before you and ask that you elect me as your President.  I presented my vision; I outlined my plans and I laid out my syllabus for running Eta Lambda Chapter.  Brothers, you then made me proud by making me the 34^th President of Eta Lambda.  During my campaign I made the promises and provided the vision.  But over the last two years, you turn my promises and visions into facts.  Like homeboys in the hood, you had my back, and Brothers I thank you for that.

During my campaign, I promised that Eta Lambda would conduct the National Programs of Alpha Phi Alpha.  Under the direction and leadership of the Vice President, Director of Programs, Committee Chairman and Committee Members, Eta Lambda through Alpha's Project EXCEL conducted Project Alpha, Go to High School Go to College, a Voteless People is a Hopeless People and Leadership Development Institute.  I made the promise, you made it a fact, and Brothers I thank you for that.

I made a promise to conduct community service programs.  Under the leadership of the Director of Membership, the Community Service Committee Chair, and the Committee Members, the Brothers of Eta Lambda volunteered and worked with Project Open Hands, The Salvation Army, March of Dimes Walk America and the Hosea Williams Feed the Hungry, we also Adopted 25 families for Thanksgiving and Christmas.  I made the promise, you made it a fact, and Brothers I thank you for that.

I made a promise to raise funds for scholarships and to increase Eta Lambda's Scholarship awards.  Under the leadership of the Fundraising Committee and the Director of Education, the Brothers of Eta Lambda made generous donations to the "100 Alphas for Scholarship" drive.  Because of your unselfish, magnanimous and thoughtful contributions, over the last two years, the Brothers of Eta Lambda have raised nearly $30,000 for scholarships.  Eta Lambda increased its annual scholarship awards from $4,000 a year to $10,000 per year.  I made the promise, you made it a fact, and Brothers I thank you for that.

Lastly, I promised to maintain Eta Lambda prominence as the premier chapter in Alpha.  I said Eta Lambda would compete for the Alumni Chapter of the Year.  Under the directions of the Director of Internal Affairs and the Awards Committee, Eta Lambda Chapter put together an impressive chapter displays.  In 2006, Eta Lambda won the Best Chapter Display Award, and in 2007, Eta Lambda was named the Georgia District's Alumni Chapter of the Year.  I made the promise, you made it a fact, and Brothers I thank you for that.

My father often said "If you are leading and no one is following, then you are just out for a walk".  It is comforting to know that for the last two year the Brothers of Eta Lambda have stood behind me as President.  You congratulated me when thing went right and you encouraged me when thing went wrong.  You stayed by my side though thick and thin.  For the last two years you had my back, and Brothers I thank you for that.  

Fraternally Yours

Ronald M. Natson, 34^th President – Eta Lambda

11^th District Director of Georgia

Eta Lambda Update

Greetings to the most esteem Brothers of Eta Lambda Chapter.  The May fraternity meeting will be held on Thursday May 10, 2007 at the Friendship Center located at 472 Beckwith Street NW just south of Mitchell St behind the Morris Brown Twin Towers.  The pre-meeting reception will begin at 6:00 pm, and the Chapter meeting will begin promptly at 7:00 pm.

On May 9, 2007 at 12:00 noon, Eta Lambda Chapter will host the Butler Street YMCA Hungry Club Forum Luncheon.  The speaker for the luncheon is Bro. Dan Sims the Principal at Paul D. West Middle School.  During the luncheon, Eta Lambda will present its scholarship winner for the 2007-2008 school year.  Tickets for the Hungry Club Luncheon are $15.00.  For tickets, please contact Bro. Willie Saulsbury, Bro. Johnny Hardnet or Bro. Myron Cook.

On April 21, 2007, Eta Lambda chapter conducted its Leadership Development Institute on the campus of Morehouse College.  Approximately 85 students for metro Atlanta High Schools participated in workshops on Public Speaking, Parliamentary Procedures, Manners Matter, and Success and How to Achieve It.  Brothers, let's show our appreciation to Bro. Michael Jenkins, Bro. Charles Hawk and the Leadership Development Committee for another successful leadership program.

I would like to thank Bro. Thua Barlay chair of the March of Dimes WalkAmerica Committee and the Brothers that participated in WalkAmerica 2007!  This year, Eta Lambda Chapter donated over $1,500 for this worthy cause.  Because of your dedication and contribution, more babies will have a fighting chance for a healthy life.

Brothers, at the May meeting we will elect Officers for the 2007 – 2008 fraternally year.  We will also elect delegates to the National Convention that is scheduled for August 9^th through August 13^th at the Rosen Shingles Resort in Orlando Florida.

Brothers I look forward to seeing you at the chapter meeting on May 10, 2007.  And don't forget Mother's Day on Sunday May 13, 2007.

Fraternally Yours

Ronald M. Natson, Sr.

34^th President – Eta Lambda Chapter

11^th Georgia District Director

Greetings to the distinguished Brothers of Eta Lambda, the February fraternity meeting will be held on Thursday February 8, 2007 at Washington High School located at

The Georgia District Convention was held January 18 – 20, 2007 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Marietta Georgia.  Eta Lambda was well represented at the convention with more than thirty Brothers in attendance.  Brothers please join me in congratulating Bro. Rashid Mosley on being named the Georgia District Alumni Brother of the Year.  Also, because of your hard work and commitment to excellence, Eta Lambda Chapter was named Georgia District Alumni Chapter of the Year.  During the convention elections, your President Bro. Ronald M. Natson, Sr. was voted to be the next appointed District Director of Georgia. 

The successes that Eta Lambda has achieved this fraternal year could not have been possible without the understanding and support of our wives and sweethearts.  Therefore, the Brothers of Eta Lambda will express their gratitude to their wives and sweethearts at our Annual Sweethearts Affair on Sunday February 18, 2007 at the Atlanta Renaissance Hotel.  The cost of the Sweethearts Affair is $100.00 per couple.  For ticket information please contact Brother Larry Clemmons or Brother John Carter.

Eta Lambda's Board of Directors voted to continue the "100 Alphas for Scholarships" fundraising drive for 2007.  The 2006 "100 Alphas for Scholarships" fundraising drive was a 100% success.  Because of your generous contributions, Eta Lambda was able to award $10,000.00 in scholarships in 2006.  Your President and Board of Directors would like to encourage all Brothers (both active and inactive) to make a $100 tax deductible contribution in 2007 to Eta Lambda Chapter Scholarship Foundation, Inc.  This tax deductible contribution will support the fraternity's national program "Go to High School – Go to College" as we strive to award $10,000 in scholarships in 2007.

GET ON THE BUS!!  Eta Lambda Chapter is chartering a bus to the Southern Region Convention in Huntsville Alabama.  The bus will leave Atlanta on Thursday morning March 29^th and return to Atlanta on Sunday April 1^st.  The cost of the round trip is $100 per person.  To reserve your seat on the Eta Lambda Express, please contact Bro. Jim Wright.

At the February meeting, the Nomination Committee will present its recommended slate of officers for the 2007 - 2008 fraternal year.  Please submit all nomination recommendations to Bro. Larry Hardy.  Brothers, I look forward to seeing you at the February meeting.

Fraternally Yours

Bro. Ronald M. Natson, Sr.

This past weekend the Georgia District Convention was held in Marietta Georgia.  The convention concluded on Saturday evening with the District Awards Program.  Eta Lambda Chapter and the College Chapter that we mentor received the following awards and will represent the District of Georgia at the Southern Region Convention.

1. Eta Lambda – Alumni Chapter of the Year
2. Rashid Mosley – Alumni Brother of the Year
3. Zeta Mu (Georgia State) – College Chapter of the Year
4. Alpha Rho (Morehouse) – Collegiate Scholar Bowl Winner
5. Alpha Phi (Clark Atlanta) – Step Show Winner

I would like to thank all Committee Chairman and Committee Members for conducting quality National and Community Service Projects that enabled Eta Lambda to reach the first step in becoming the National Alumni Chapter of the Year.  Our work is not over.  We must continue to conduct the National Programs and Community Services Projects as we prepare to compete at the Regional Convention on March 29^th – April 1^st in Huntsville Alabama. 

Also, I would like to thank the Awards Committee and all Brothers that assisted in putting together the Chapter's Display Board and the Chapter's Documentation Books.  Your impeccable attention to detail is to be commended. 

Finally, I would like to inform you that your President Bro. Ronald M. Natson, Sr. was chosen to be the next selected District Director of Georgia.

The January Board of Directors meeting will be held on Thursday January 25, 2007 at the Mall West End Community Room.  The Board meeting will begin promptly at 7:00 pm.  I look forward to seeing you at the January Board of Directors meeting.

Bro. Ronald M. Natson, Sr.

Eta Lambda Update

Happy New Years!  I hope and trust that you had a happy and safe holiday.  The January fraternity meeting will take place on Thursday January 11, 2007 at Washington High School.  The pre-meeting reception will begin at 6:00 pm and the chapter meeting will begin promptly at 7:00 pm.

On December 31, 2006, the Brothers of Eta Lambda ushered in the New Year at the Annual New Years Eve Ball.  Nearly 500 Brothers and guest enjoyed scrumptious food and drinks as they danced the night away to the sounds of the Crystal Clear Band.  Thank you to Bro. Ed Jonas and the Holiday Dance Committee for implementing a superb event.

On January 11, 2007 at 6:00 pm (prior to the chapter meeting) at Washington High School, Eta Lambda will conduct an Informational Seminar for men aspiring to join Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.  Aspirants that are interested in attending the Informational Seminar should contact Eta Lambda's Intake Coordinator, Bro. Herman Lum at ic@etalambda.org.  Bro. Lum will send invitations to all interested parties.  Coat and Tie are required for admittance.

Bro. Larry Hardy has been appointed the Chairman of Eta Lambda's Nomination Committee.  The Nomination Committee will canvas the Brotherhood to establish a recommended slate of Officers.  Brothers that are interested in seeking an elected office in Eta Lambda should contact Bro. Hardy before January 23, 2007.

Eta Lambda's Board of Directors voted to continue the "100 Alphas for Scholarships" fundraising drive for 2007.  The Jewels of this great fraternity understood the importance of education and scholarship as stated in the aims of our dear fraternity: "Manly Deeds, Scholarship, and Love for all Mankind".  The 2006 "100 Alphas for Scholarships" fundraising drive was a 100% success.  Because of your generous contributions, Eta Lambda was able to award $10,000.00 in scholarships in 2006.  The President and Board of Directors would like to thank every Brother who made a donation in 2006 and encourage all Brothers (both active and inactive) to make a $100 tax deductible contribution in 2007 to Eta Lambda Chapter Scholarship Foundation, Inc.  This tax deductible contribution will support the fraternity's national program "Go to High School – Go to College".

Please make plans to attend the 51^st Georgia District Convention on January 19 – 20, 2007 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Marrietta Georgia.  The Crowne Plaza Hotel is located at 1775 Parkway Place, Marietta Georgia 30067.  Also, the Southern Region Convention is scheduled for March 29 – April 1, 2007 in Huntsville, Alabama at the Embassy Suites Hotel and Downtown Holiday Inn Hotel.

Message From the President:

Greeting to the most noble and illustrious Brothers of Eta Lambda.  This is indeed a great time to be a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.  We culminated our Centennial Celebration on Monday December 4^th with over 1,000 Alphas at the Martin Luther King Chapel on the campus of Morehouse College.  The call to Centennial was inspirational, encouraging and motivating. 

Brothers, lets thank Bro. Herman Skip Mason and the Metro Centennial Committee for planning and implementing a superb Centennial Celebration for the Brothers in the City of Atlanta.  From the magnificent Centennial Gala of Gala's that was held on Saturday December 2^nd at the Marriott Marquis Hotel,  to the impressive Centennial Public Program held on Sunday December 3^rd at Big Bethel AME Church, to the majestic Call to Centennial on December 4^th at the King Chapel on the Campus of Morehouse College.  Every Centennial event was remarkable, outstanding and amazing.

I would like to invite the Brothers to Eta Lambda's December Chapter meeting which will take place on Thursday December 14, 2006 at Washington High School.  The pre-meeting fellowship will begin at 6:00 pm and the meeting will begin promptly at 7:00 pm. Brothers please park in the lot behind the school.  (Parking in front of the school's auditorium is reserved for Senior Brothers and Brothers that are mobility impaired).

As always, Eta Lambda will adopt families for Christmas.  The Community Service committee will be conducting a Clothing and Toy Drive at the December meeting.  Brothers are asked to bring "not so old" and new clothes or unwrapped toys in support of Eta Lambda's Adopt-a-Family campaign.   

Tickets and Tables to Eta Lambda's 77^th New Years Eve Dance will be available at the December chapter meeting.  This year's dance is being held at the Airport Hilton Hotel.  The tables are $575.00 (seats 10 people), and Tickets are $150.00 per couple.   

The Georgia District Convention will be held January 19 – 21, 2007 at the Crown Plaza Hotel in Marietta, Georgia.  We will elect delegates to the convention at the December fraternity meeting.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Brothers of Eta Lambda for their significant support throughout the year.  Being President of this Most August chapter can be challenging.  But with the persistent support and encouragement from the brotherhood, you all have made the job easy, pleasant and enjoyable.  THANK YOU!!!  I would like to wish that every Brother and his family have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Years.

Fraternally Yours

Ronald M. Natson, President

The Next Step:  Continuing the Legacy through Leadership, Scholarship and Service

Eta Lambda Update

Eta Lambda's November Board of Directors meeting will be held on Thursday November 30, 2006 at 7:00 pm. in the community room at the Mall West End.  When you enter the mall, go down the stairs.  The Community Room is the first room on the left.

Reminder.  If you purchased tickets for the Centennial Gala either on line or mailed in a check, your tickets will be available at the Will Call table on Saturday, December 2nd at 6:00 at the Marriott Marquis Hotel. Tickets were assigned in the order that they were received.  We thank you for your tremendous support and look forward to seeing you at the Centennial Ball "The Gala of Galas" featuring Lalah Hathaway and the Sounds of Essence. It will be a most incredible evening! The attire is Black Tie.

On Sunday December 3, 2006, the Metro Chapters of Alpha will host the Centennial Public Program.  The Public Program will be held at 4:00 pm at Big Bethel AME Church located on the corner of

On Monday, December 4, 2006, the 100th Anniversary to the day of the founding of our beloved fraternity, we are calling on every living, breathing and mobile Alpha within a 100 mile radius of Atlanta to assemble in black suits and gold ties at the historic Martin Luther King, Jr. International Chapel for our Centennial Founders Day Rededication program. This will be the final activity of the Metro Atlanta Centennial Celebration. The Centennial Rededication Program is open to all Alphas active and inactive.  The grand processional will begin at 6:45. Every brother will march into the chapel under the musical strains of the Centennial Choir and Orchestra. It will be one of the majestic moments of your life. Each brother present will receive a certificate of attendance signed by the Seven Jewels (oh the marvels of technology).

Brothers this is a Great time to be a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.  I look forward to seeing you at all the Centennial Celebration events listed above.

 Ronald M. Natson, President

Eta Lambda's November chapter will be held on Thursday November 9, 2006
at Washington High School located at 45 Whitehouse Drive, Atlanta,
Georgia 30314.  The pre-meeting fellowship will begin at 6:00 pm and
the chapter meeting will begin promptly at 7:00 pm.

At the November meeting, Brothers are asked to bring can goods and/or
make monetary donations to support the chapter?s Thanksgiving basket
food drive.  Alpha?s Project Excel will be preparing Thanksgiving
Baskets this Saturday, November 11, 2006.  We need at least 15 brothers
to assist with this event.  Brothers will distribute baskets, clothes;
household items to families who are in need.  The purpose of this event
is to decrease the number of youth who are without nutritional meals
during the holidays.  Brothers will meet Saturday, November 11, 2006 at
Washington High School from 9:00-11:00 am.  If you have questions
please call Bro. Terrell Sanders 770 823 8714 (cell) or 770 774 1589.

Brothers, thank you for participating in the membership intake
Leadership Weekend and I look forward to your participation in
Membership Weekend as well.  The Membership Weekend will begin at 6:00
pm on Friday November 10th and Saturday November 11th at Paul D. West
Middle School.  Brothers must be financial and risk management
certified to attend the membership intake.  Also, Alpha attire is
required.  Brothers can receive their Risk Management Certification at
the intake session on Friday.

The Brothers of Eta Lambda and Alpha Phi (Clark Atlanta) will welcome
the Fall Line of 2006 at a banquet immediately following Saturday?s
intake session at Paul D. West Middle School.  The original menu from
the First Initiation Banquet will be served.  Tickets are $10.00 and
will be available at Thursday's chapter meeting.  Please see Bro.
Herman Lum or Bro. John Carter for tickets. 

Please plan to bring your family this Sunday for an afternoon of
literary works, music by members of the Centennial Choir and oration of
works presented by the Jewels at the same program 100 years earlier as
we celebrate the Centennial of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. This
event which is free and opened to the public will take place on Sunday,
November 13th at 4:00 at the Faith Temple AME Zion Church on the corner
of Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive and Hamilton Holmes Drive (formerly
Hightower Road).  The keynote speaker is the dynamic and fiery Brother
Dr. Michael Battle, President of ITC.

Fraternally Yours
Ronald M. Natson, President

You are cordially invited to Eta Lambda's October Reclamation Meeting.
This meeting will have the usual events and entertainment for your
enjoyment.  We are asking every financial member to bring a
non-financial Brother to the meeting.  The October Reclamation meeting
will be held at Club Amnesia (formerly Mr. V's Figure 8).  The address
is 3131 Campbellton Road in the Westgate Shopping Center.  The
pre-meeting reception begins at 6:00 pm and the meeting will begin
promptly at 7:00 pm.

At the October meeting, you can pay your dues for the 2006-2007
fraternal year.  The dues are $250.00 for Life Members and $400.00 for
Non-Life Members.  Non-Life Members dues includes $150.00 for National
Dues.  If you are unable to attend the October meeting, you can pay
your dues on-line at the following link:  
http://www.etalambda.org/test/payus.php

Eta Lambda's 80th Annual New Years Eve Dance will be held at the
Airport Hilton Hotel on December 31, 2006.  Tables and tickets for the
New Years Eve Dance will go on sale at the October meeting.  Financial
members of Eta Lambda may purchase tickets for $575 for a table of 10
or individual tickets at $150 a couple. 

Thanksgiving is around the corner.  Because of a lack of resources,
there are families in our community that will not have a meal for
Thanksgiving.  Brothers it is up to us to change this dilemma.  At the
October and November meetings, Eta Lambda's Community Service Committee
will be accepting donation for Eta Lambda's Thanksgiving basket drive.
The Community Service Committee is requesting the Brothers to bring the
following items to be placed in Thanksgiving baskets.  Can Goods:
Collar Greens, Any Form of Peas, Green Beans, Yams, Tomatoes, Corn,
Cranberry Sauce, Gravy Mix, Mashed Potatoes, and Cornbread.  Brothers
your donations will go a long way to making meals available to those
that are less fortunate than ourselves.

The next cultural outing will be on Friday, November 10, 2006, 7:30 PM
at the Balzer Theatre at Herren's, 84 Luckie Street in downtown
Atlanta. The play we will see is Waiting to Be Invited, written by
local Atlanta playwright Sherry M. Shephard-Massat and directed by
Carol Mitchell-Leon. This play tells the story of how, following
desegregation in 1961, four women are on a mission to be among the
first African-Americans to dine in the restaurant of one of Atlanta?s
finest downtown department stores. This endearing comedy tells a tale
of friendship, fear, faith and fortitude.  This play is not to be
missed! Fifty (50) tickets have been reserved for Eta Lambda at the
cost of $20 each. Brothers are asked to make a commitment, by
purchasing tickets at October's Frat Meeting or by contacting Brother
Wendell Johnson at (770) 552-4744.

Eta Lambda is the host chapter of the Metro Atlanta Alpha Centennial
Celebration for 2006.  The Centennial Committee is asking every Brother
of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. in Metropolitan Atlanta to align
themselves with one; if not all events planned.    The Committee is
planning a once in a lifetime celebration to recognize 100 years of
Alphadom, of our great fraternity.
 
For the month of October, the Centennial Exhibit is on display in
Atlanta at the Robert W. Woodruff Library in the Atlanta University
Center. If you have not seen it, make sure you get there before October
30th.  On Monday October 30th we will celebrate the first banquet at
wonderful dinner/theater event in the Brother Bishop Cornelius
Henderson Center on the campus of Clark Atlanta University.

Other highlights include the A PHI A/Black and Gold Day Celebration on
October 23, and a celebration of music and arts in honor of our First
Service Project in Ithaca on Sunday, November 13th. More details to
follow.  A National Day of Service will be held and these plans are
being coordinated. 

On Saturday December 2, 2006 we will have the Alpha Centennial Black
Tie Gala at the Marriott Marquis. A major entertainer will be announced
shortly and a spectacular souvenir book will be published.  We want
Brothers, chapters, lines and businesses to take out an ad for this
event.   

On Sunday, December 3, 2006 we will have a grand Centennial Public
Program at Big Bethel AME Church.  The keynote speaker will be The
Honorable Brother Kwame Kilpatrick, Mayor of Detroit.  The program will
feature the Metro Atlanta Centennial Choir, the Grand Centennial
Processional March of Senior Alpha brothers and some very special
honorees and guests who will join us including the 32nd General
President, the Supreme Basileus of Alpha Kappa Alpha and the Grand
Polemarch of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity.

On Monday, December 4, we will gather 1000 Alphas at the historic
Martin Luther King Jr. Chapel for a Brother's only event that you will
not want to miss. The only requirement is that you be an Alpha and wear
a black suit and gold tie!    We thank you in advance for your support
in making our Alpha Centennial Celebration the most memorable ever! 

Metro Atlanta Centennial Celebration

Brothers,

As Chair of the Metro Atlanta Alpha Centennial Celebration 2006,  I ask every Brother of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. in Metropolitan Atlanta (Cobb, Gwinnett, DeKalb, Fulton, Fayette, Henry, Douglas) and surrounding areas to align themselves with one; if not all events planned. We are planning a once in a lifetime celebration to recognize 100 years of Alphadom, of our great fraternity. 

We have opened the Centennial Exhibit in Atlanta at the Robert W. Woodruff Library in the Atlanta University Center. If you have not seen it, make sure you get there before October 30th. 

We will celebrate the first banquet on Monday, October 30th at wonderful dinner/theater event in the Brother Bishop Cornelius Henderson Center on the campus of Clark Atlanta University. The entire first banquet meal will be recreated and the college brothers in the Metro Atlanta area will provide a memorable theatrical presentation. 

Other highlights include the APHIA/Black and Gold Day Celebration on October 23 and a celebration of music and arts in honor of our First Service Project in Ithaca on Sunday, November 13th. More details to follow.  A National Day of Service will be held and these plans are being coordinated. 

I encourage all brothers to invite, family, friends, other fraternities and sororities, community, corporate & business partners; to participate and be in attendance at our Alpha Centennial Black Tie Gala on Saturday evening, December 2, 2006, at the Marriott Marquis. A major entertainer will be announced shortly and a spectacular souvenir book will be published. Your ad form is attached. We want chapters, lines and businesses to take out an ad for this event.   

On Sunday, we will have a grand Centennial Public Program at Big Bethel AME Church (the only place in Atlanta where Jewel Callis and Chapman worshipped during the convention in 1929.) Our keynote speaker will be The Honorable Brother Kwame Kilpatrick, Mayor of Detroit.  The program will feature the Metro Atlanta Centennial Choir, the Grand Centennial Processional March of Senior Alpha brothers and some very special honorees and guests who will join us including the 32nd General President, the Supreme Basileus of Alpha Kappa Alpha and the Grand Polemarch of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity.

A separate notice will be sent announcing rehearsal schedule for the 100 voice Centennial Choir. 

On Monday, December 4, we will gather 1000 Alphas at the historic Martin Luther King Jr. Chapel for a Brother's only event that you will not want to miss. The only requirement is that you be an Alpha and wear a black suit and gold tie!  We want active, inactive, long lost, disgruntled to come back home to the House of Alpha for this life changing service of  Restoration and Rededication led by every Alpha Clergy in the city. The processional alone will be grand and splendid with Brother David Oliver on the historic pipe organ in the King Chapel. 

We thank  you in advance for your support in making our Alpha Centennial Celebration the most memorable ever! 

Fraternally,

Brother Skip Mason

and the Metro Atlanta Centennial Celebration Committee

As Eta Lambda prepares for the 2006 – 2007 fraternity year, I am motivated by the spirit of brotherly love, and encouraged by the true spirit of the fraternity.  The September meeting will be held Thursday September 14, 2006 at the Loudermilk Conference Center located at

Brothers please disregard the e-mail you received asking you to register for the September meeting.  The meeting notice was accidentally sent out as an event registration.  Eta Lambda meetings are open to all Brothers.  NO registration is required.

The fraternal year began on September 1^st, 2006.  Dues for the 2006 – 2007 are due.  You may pay your dues at the September meeting or online at www.etalambda.org.  Just click on Brother Portal to make you payment by check or credit card.

Brothers, I hope that you enjoyed the awesome Centennial Celebration that was held July 25^th to July 30^th in Washington DC.  Eta Lambda had 92 Brothers registered at the Convention.  If you missed the Centennial Celebration, you will have any opportunity to view the Centennial Exhibit titled "The House of Alpha".  The Brothers of Eta Lambda are invited to the Grand Opening of the Centennial Exhibit in Atlanta.  The Grand Opening will take place on Tuesday September 19, 2006 at 7:00 pm in the Virginia Lacey Jones Gallery at Robert W. Woodruff Library located at James P. Brawley Drive and Walnut Street (Atlanta University Center).  The Centennial Exhibit "The House of Alpha" was put together by none other than Bro. Herman "Skip" Mason.  Trust me; you do not want to miss this exhibition.

The Membership Intake Committee will hold the Fall Informational Seminar on Friday September 15, 2006 at 7:00 pm in Kilgore Hall located on the campus of Morehouse College.  Brothers are encouraged to invite men that are interested in becoming Alphas.  For more information, please contact Bro. Herman Lum at lumherman@hotmail.com. 

On Saturday September 9, 2006, Eta Lambda's immediate past Vice President Bro. Thua Barlay joined the ranks of the happily married Brothers.  Bro. Barlay married the lovely Ms. Andrea Miles.  Brothers, please join me in congratulating Brother Thua and Andrea Barlay.  May God bless this union.

Brothers I look forward to seeing you at the September Fraternity meeting.

Ronald M. Natson, President

Eta Lambda Update

The July fraternity meeting will be held on Thursday, July 13, 2006 at the Loudermilk Conference Center in downtown Atlanta. The Loudermilk Conference Center is located at 40 Courtland Street (directly behind the United Way building). The pre-meeting reception will begin at 6:00 pm and the meeting will begin promptly at 7:00 pm.

At the July meeting, Eta Lambda's Community Activity Committee will be conducting a school supply drive for back to school. We are asking Brothers to bring paper, pens, pencils, book bags, crayons, etc. The committee will also be accepting donations to help purchase school supplies. All school supplies will be donated to the Boys and Girls Club of Metro Atlanta.

Brothers, when we go the polls on July 18, 2006, let's make an Alpha man the first African American Secretary of State in Georgia.  I urge you to vote for Bro. Darryl Hicks for Secretary of State.  Bro. Hicks is an initiate of the Iota Chapter at Morris Brown College and a long time member of Eta Lambda.  Please encourage all of you friends to support and vote for Bro. Darryl Hicks.

Eta Lambda's Summer Picnic is schedule for August 5th at the Georgia State University recreation facility located on North Indian Creek Road in Stone Mountain Georgia. The cost of the picnic is $10.00 per person. You may purchase your picnic tickets at the July meeting or online at www.etalambda.org.

Thank You to the Brothers that supported the Salute to a Civil Rights Legend Ozell Sutton to benefit the Martin Luther King Memorial Project. This event raised approximately $65,000.00 for the M. L. King Memorial. More than 200 brothers of Eta Lambda support this successful fundraising event.

Eta Lambda Update

The June fraternity meeting will be held on Thursday June 8, 2006 at the Atlanta Airport Marriott Hotel.  The pre-meet reception will begin at 6:00 pm and with the meeting starting promptly at 7:00 pm.

At the June meeting, we will honor the Brothers that made the 100 Alpha's for Scholarship Drive a success.  Because of you unselfish and generous contributions, Eta Lambda Chapter was able to award $10,000 in scholarships.  If you contributed to the scholarship drive, please be present for a special presentation.

The Fatherhood Breakfast is scheduled for Saturday June 17, 2006 8:30 am at Johnte's Buffet located at 2435 Campbellton Road.  Tickets for the Fatherhood Breakfast will be available at the June fraternity meeting.  For additional information please contact Bro. Charter Taylor or Bro. Myron Cook.

Tickets are on sale for "A Salute to Civil Rights Legend" Dr. Ozell Sutton benefiting The Washington DC Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial Project Foundation, Inc.  The event is scheduled for June 21, 2006 at 6:00pm at the Rialto Center for the Performing Arts.  The entertainment for this event is "Five Men on a Stool".  VIP ticket and Reception is $100.00 per person and General Admission is $50.00 per person.  You may purchase tickets online at www.etalambda.org or by calling VonCreations at (404) 349-3657.

Chapter Update

The April Board of Directors meeting will be held at 7:00pm on Thursday April 27, 2006 at the Atlanta Airport Marriott Hotel.

Brothers, please save the date of May 10^th for Eta Lambda Scholarship Luncheon.  The Scholarship Luncheon will take place during the Hungry Club Forum at the Butler Street YMCA.  Eta Lambda will award $10,000 in scholarships to Atlanta Public School Students, and to our Brothers in Alpha Rho (Morehouse), Alpha Phi (Clark Atlanta) and Zeta Mu (Georgia State).  The cost of the luncheon is $15.00.  You may purchase you tickets on line at www.etalambda.org click on events to complete your purchase. 

Brothers on June 21, 2006 at the Rialto Center for the Performing Arts, you are invited to attend "A Salute to Civil Rights Legend" Dr. Ozell Sutton benefiting The Washington DC Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial Project Foundation, Inc.  The entertainment for this event is "Five Men on a Stool".  VIP ticket and Reception is $100.00 and General Admission is $50.00.  Tickets for this event will be available at the May meeting.  You may also purchase tickets online at www.etalambda.org.

Officers for the 2006 – 2007 fraternal year will be elect at the May meeting schedule for May 11, 2006.  The nomination committee recommended the following slate of officers: President: Ronald Natson, Vice President: Keith Harris, Vice President of Finance: Joseph Patterson, Recording Secretary: Willie Harper, Corresponding Secretary: Kenyatta Shamburger, Financial Secretary: Larry Hardy, Treasurer: Ralph Hendricks, Associate Editor To The Sphinx: Darryl Lesure, Historian: Jim Wright, Intake Coordinator: Herman Lum, Chaplin: Brendan Jenkins, Director of Education: Rashid Mosley, Board Members at Large (3): Robert Holmes, Greg Sims, Robert A. Willis.  There were no nominations from the floor. Therefore, the ballot will be prepared with the names listed above with a place for write-in candidates.

Fraternally

Ronald Natson, President

Weekly Update:

The April fraternity meeting will be held on Thursday April 13, 2006 at the Atlanta Airport Marriott Hotel.  The pre-meeting reception will begin at 6:00 pm and the meeting will begin promptly at 7:00 pm.  During the meeting, the Brothers will receive a briefing on the chapter's new website.

On Saturday April 15, 2006 between 10:00 am and 1:00 pm, Eta Lambda's Scholarship Interview Committee will conduct interviews for all scholarship applicants at the Allen Temple AME Church located at

On Saturday April 22, 2006, Eta Lambda Chapter will participate in the March of Dimes Walk America.  The walk will begin at 8:00 am in Centennial Olympic Park.  Brothers are as to make donations at the April meeting in support of Walk America.  Brothers that are interested in participating in Walk America should contact Bro. Thua Barlay.

Also on Saturday April 22, 2006 from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm, Eta Lambda Chapter will conduct its Leadership Development Workshop on the campus of Morehouse College.  Brothers that are interested in assisting with the Leadership Development Workshop should contact Bro. Charles Hawk.

At the March 9^th meeting, the Nomination Committee presented the recommended slate of officers for the 2006 – 2007 fraternal year.  The following is the Slate of Officers:

Ronald Natson, President

Keith Harris, Vice President

Joseph Patterson, VP Finance

Willie Harper, Recording Secretary

Kenyatta Shamburger, Corresponding Secretary

Ralph Hendrix, Treasurer

Larry Hardy, Financial Secretary

Darryl Lesure, Associate Editor to the Sphinx

James Wright, Historian

Herman Lum, Intake Coordinator

Brenden Jenkins, Chaplin

Rashid Mosley, Director of Education

Robert Holmes, Board Member at Large

Gregory Sims, Board Member at Large

Robert A. Wills, Board Member at Large

Formal nomination will be held at he April meeting, and the vote for the new officers will be held at the May meeting.

At the Georgia District Convention, which was held on January 27-29, 2006 in Macon Georgia, Brother Gregory Sims was named the Alumni Brother of the Year for the District of Georgia.  On April 6-9, 2006, Bro. Sims will represent Eta Lambda Chapter and the Georgia District at the Southern Region Convention in Memphis as he competes for the Southern Region Alumni Brother the Year.  Good Luck to Bro. Sims as he continues to hold high the light of Alpha.

Also, at the Georgia District Convention, Eta Lambda Chapter received the award for the best chapter display.  Congratulations and many thanks to the chapter display committee for a job well done.  The members of the Chapter Display Committee are:  Bro. Michael Shepard, Bro. Marcus Shepard, Bro. Keith Washington, and Bro. Larry Hardy.